Depression medications...help!

[Melissa in CA]

OK, my 21 yo son has been dealing with bouts of depression on and off for about a year now. He is totally hesitant about taking any meds and has so far refused. But he is turning to alcohol and partying because it helps him cope. NOT GOOD.

 

We have tried homeopathy for his depression and it did help for a while, but had no long terms effects. I am thinking perhaps my ds should go to his primary doctor and try a medication to see if it will at least help him through this time of his life. Alcoholism is rampant in my family as well as my dh's...I don't want him to go down that path. BUT, I am afraid of depression meds. He is afraid. He's heard horror stories, and is afraid he would be on a pill the rest of his life.

 

For anyone who is or has been depressed, can you please offer some of your wisdom here? I have never dealt with depression and I really don't know how to advise him.

[Jean in Newcastle]

He should definitely be talking to his Dr. But I've done some research on this and found that taking the pure fish oil (the kind that has been ultra refined) at the dose of 3000 mg a day is helpful for people with depression even with medications.

[MamaSheep]

First, let me just say that I'm sorry to hear that your family is having to deal with this. It's not fun.

 

It's my understanding that most people use depression medications short-term, and are not on them the rest of their lives. The research I have read also indicates that medication works best when it's paired with "talk-therapy", or counselling of some (responsible) kind, so you may want to look into options for that in your area also. A few people have long-term chemical imbalance issues and do need the meds their whole lives. This is not that much different from having a biological issue like diabetes that requires one to take insulin for the rest of one's life. Most modern medications for depression are not habit-forming, though, and I would guess his chances of getting "hooked" on alcohol are much greater than that of developing any sort of dependency on depression meds. Also, alcohol is actually a depressant, and will make the problem worse over the long term, not better.

 

There are a few horror stories related to depression meds. There are also vast numbers of happy stories, but we don't hear as much about them. They've worked wonders in my son's life, for example, and I have a sister who has benefitted as well. If the meds are used responsibly, with proper medical supervision, the chances of a happy outcome are very, very good, and the odds of a "horror story" ending are not high. Consider the "horror stories" you have heard relating to alcohol use and abuse. Alcohol is definitely a factor in a LOT more "horror stories" than depression meds.

 

I think you are right to be concerned about his self-medicating with alcohol. It's likely to make the depression worse, not better, and especially with a family history of alcoholism the chances of dependence on alcohol are MUCH higher than the chances of dependence on anti-depressants. If it turns out that he does need to stay on some kind of medication over the long term, I would guess that his odds of having a happy life are much greater on a regular, doctor-regulated dose of anti-depressants than on sporadic, random, self-prescribed "doses" of alcohol.

 

And that's my two cents, for what it's worth. :grouphug:

[danybug]

My advice is just personal knowledge. You should definitely talk with your son about having a trial period with medication. It is so much better than starting down a path of addiction.

 

My dh suffers with mild depression so he has been taking Zoloft for about two years. He takes the lowest dose (10mg) and has done really well with it. He has no real side effects and when he misses a day or two he can really notice his mood shifting.

 

I took Lexapro back when September 11th happened. I started having anxiety attacks. I took the lowest dose for 6 months and then just quit. It totally helped me and when I was confident again I decided to stop taking it. I had no side effects on it or when I stopped.

 

I think a good plan would be to go into the doctor and ask to start on a low dose and have your ds have a specific plan on when he will reevaluate continue taking or quitting. I think if at all possible it would be great to also try some therapy because whatever possible underlying issues could begin being addressed or worked through.

 

Anyway, this is just some experience I thought I would share. Good luck to your ds!

[Ottakee]

Personally, I would rather have you have him see a specialist to get started on meds. A psychiatrist will have more experience with the meds, side effects, etc. and will be more likley to help him find something that will work with the least amount of side effects.

 

The fish oils can be very helpful---at least 1000mg of EPA (NOT just "fish oil") per day. Exercise, Vitamin D, and those lights for SAD are also helpful but if he is turning to alcohol, et.c then he might need meds for now (and maybe long term).

 

Make sure the doctor knows about the family history, etc.

[Little Nyssa]

You really need good information, not just a few opinions from this board. Visit the website of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill:

 

NAMI California - Informing, Educating & Supporting People With ...

Donna Pollard, a long-time NAMI Orange County volunteer, employee, and friend to families and children retired on October 7, 2010. ...

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[celticmom]

I would say to be very, very, very careful with antidepressants. My dh was prescribed effexor years ago and was not told that that it is very addictive. The source of his depression moved to Texas and he is now much calmer but he cannot stop taking the effexor without a months long gradual lowering of the dose. This procedure is not always effective for everyone. He also has other health problems now that I suspect the effexor of contributing to or worsening.

[ktgrok]

Moderate exercise has been shown to be just as effective as antidepressant medication. Would he be willing to try exercising on a regular basis?

[dancer67]

I am sorry you are dealing with this.:grouphug:

 

I have experience in this area, unfortunately.

 

I would have him see a Psychiatrist, not a PCP. Psych Dr's have experience in this area.

 

You cannot go by what everyone says about anti-depressents, as everyone reacts differently. What works for one, may not work for another. And you are going to hear horror stories about anti-depressents as well. Again, everyone is different.

 

Prozac is usually the first choice of SSRI. It is been out for a long time, low side effects, and is easy to come off of. It is the only SSRI approved for children as well.

 

There are two classes of drugs. SSRI, and SSNRI's.

 

SSRI's usually treat depression more then anxiety. SSNRI's are a little more potent, and treat depression and anxiety.

 

I currently take Effexor XR. It works well for me. Like the above poster said, Effexor has a bad reputation for severe withdrawal effects. I did come off of Effexor one time, and it was not bad for me. I felt more like I was "off kilter" after tapering off. But it didn't last long. I decided after a year of being off to go back on it. I have been on 75mg of it now for two years. I have no side effects. But someone else may have bad start up effects from it.

 

Depression is a real disease. And many times, needs real medication. I was always ashamed to say I was on Effexor, but not anymore. I like myself better on it, then off.

 

I hope you are able to find what works best for him:grouphug:

[Sandra in FL]

I also recommend the addition of natural stuff like 1000mg of EPA (not just 1000mg of fish oil), sunshine, exercise and methyl folate (version of folic acid).

 

Check out these links:

 

http://www.cnsspectrums.com/aspx/articledetail.aspx?articleid=1267

 

http://www.drugs.com/comments/l-methylfolate/for-depression.html

 

Google methyl folate.

[kalanamak]

 

I would have him see a Psychiatrist, not a PCP. Psych Dr's have experience in this area.

 

 

I agree with all of dancer67's post, but mentioning a family history of alcoholism and his willingness to drink makes me think he should see someone very good at making sure there isn't a dual disorder etc going on.

 

Alcohol, when used as a drug, is a dirty drug with a lot of side effects (including increasing depression), some of them fatal. I'd take an SSRI for life over alcohol, any day.

 

:grouphug: It must be hard watching a beloved child struggle.

[Alyce]

He may actually be Bipolar. Many people who self treat with Alcohol and if there's a family history of it, it makes it that more possible. Most Bipolars don't like the feeling and side effects from taking medicine but need something. The alcohol helps relax them and give them the relief they need. They just don't see that turning to alcohol is worse than taking pills. When people think of Bipolar they think of people switching moods from super excited to super depressed but that isn't always true. Many Bipolars only experience Depression but their depressions are slightly different. For this reason I'd have him see a psychiatrist rather than a personal Dr. He'd ask more questions and could get a better idea of what's going on and whether anti depressants are really the way to go.

[asta]

I would say to be very, very, very careful with antidepressants. My dh was prescribed effexor years ago and was not told that that it is very addictive. The source of his depression moved to Texas and he is now much calmer but he cannot stop taking the effexor without a months long gradual lowering of the dose. This procedure is not always effective for everyone. He also has other health problems now that I suspect the effexor of contributing to or worsening.

 

Effexor is not addictive. It is standard medical practice to taper the drug for discontinuation as it effects multiple receptors in the brain, and to simply withdraw the medication abruptly can literally cause "shocks" to one's system. This is the case for many, many medications: not just psychopharmatropics.

 

 

There is a difference between addiction, dependence and tolerance:

 

"Physical dependence, tolerance, and addiction are discrete and different phenomena that are often

confused. Since their clinical implications and management differ markedly, it is important that uniform

definitions, based on current scientific and clinical understanding, be established in order to promote

better care of patients with pain and other conditions where the use of dependence-producing drugs is

appropriate, and to encourage appropriate regulatory policies and enforcement strategies.

 

I. Addiction

Addiction is a primary, chronic, neurobiologic disease, with genetic, psychosocial, and

environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. It is characterized

by behaviors that include one or more of the following: impaired control over drug use,

compulsive use, continued use despite harm, and craving.

 

II. Physical Dependence

Physical dependence is a state of adaptation that is manifested by a drug class specific

withdrawal syndrome that can be produced by abrupt cessation, rapid dose reduction,

decreasing blood level of the drug, and/or administration of an antagonist.

 

III. Tolerance

Tolerance is a state of adaptation in which exposure to a drug induces changes that result in

a diminution of one or more of the drug's effects over time."

 

Source: American Academy of Pain Medicine, American Pain Society and American Society of Addiction Medicine

 

 

 

a

[tex-mex]

I am sorry you are dealing with this.:grouphug:

 

I have experience in this area, unfortunately.

 

I would have him see a Psychiatrist, not a PCP. Psych Dr's have experience in this area.

 

You cannot go by what everyone says about anti-depressents, as everyone reacts differently. What works for one, may not work for another. And you are going to hear horror stories about anti-depressents as well. Again, everyone is different.

 

Prozac is usually the first choice of SSRI. It is been out for a long time, low side effects, and is easy to come off of. It is the only SSRI approved for children as well.

 

There are two classes of drugs. SSRI, and SSNRI's.

 

SSRI's usually treat depression more then anxiety. SSNRI's are a little more potent, and treat depression and anxiety.

 

I currently take Effexor XR. It works well for me. Like the above poster said, Effexor has a bad reputation for severe withdrawal effects. I did come off of Effexor one time, and it was not bad for me. I felt more like I was "off kilter" after tapering off. But it didn't last long. I decided after a year of being off to go back on it. I have been on 75mg of it now for two years. I have no side effects. But someone else may have bad start up effects from it.

 

Depression is a real disease. And many times, needs real medication. I was always ashamed to say I was on Effexor, but not anymore. I like myself better on it, then off.

 

I hope you are able to find what works best for him:grouphug:

:iagree: Personally, I have been on Luvox for more than a decade and shudder to think what would happen (anxiety wise) if I taper off or suddenly stop taking it. It has been a miracle for me. I tried the holistic route without success (akin to trying to put a "band-aid" on a wound the size of the Grand Canyon, kwim? ;)). I tried prayer, fasting, and deliverance -- but not much helped. I felt like a Raggedy Ann in a Barbie doll world, ya know? I was having a serious breakdown. Finally after 15 years of dealing with this issue, I finally got courageous enough to see a psychiatrist. He diagnosed me with OCD/Anxiety/Clinical Depression. What a relief.

 

One thing I would caution to anyone that any meds for depression or mental illness is not a genie in a bottle for a cure all. You need to be working in therapy for resolutions, CBT, or healing to be able to move on. Exercise and diet is important too. And don't be hard on yourself when you have a period when the depression or illness hits hard again -- it is a lifetime situation. You will be stronger as a result.

 

One thing I also strongly advise is to get a doctor to look over a full blood lab -- to rule out any thyroid, diabetes, kidney/liver, metabolic issues that can mimic depression, fatigue, or such. After I was dx'ed by the psychiatrist, my son fell into a coma and we found out he got a rare liver disease from my X chromosome. They tested my DNA for verification and sure enough, I was a carrier. But the doctors found out that I was a rare type -- symptomatic X-linked carrier who manifested the disease as well. It turned out the previous dx by the psychiatrist revealed my OCD/Anxiety/Depression was another "clue" of symptoms for the doctors to discover son and I had a rare liver disease. The disease builds up toxic levels of ammonia that penetrates the brain and eats away at white matter in the frontal lobe of the brain. We deal with short term memory loss, ADHD, anxiety, anger/rage, etc. No cure for it -- just a lot of daily meds. Now, I realize the liver disease is priority number one for care... and if the depression, fatigue, anxiety makes a comeback (while I am in compliance with daily meds & diet), my blood levels or liver is outta whack. But I ramble to simply say -- see a doctor too. Be safe.

 

ETA: My dh deals with clinical depression too -- but he is hypoglycemic and has thyroid/adrenal gland issues. I know when he hits rock bottom his blood sugars or adrenal gland is out of whack. He deals with it via diet and exercise. He is under the care of an endocrinologist who says for now no insulin or hormones are needed. She offered the idea of testosterone injections for him (he is always fatigued due to the adrenal gland) for more energy -- but dh wants to wait 2-3 months as he is trying a protein powder along with weightlifting regimen in a few weeks. Currently, he runs 2-3 miles a day and is really good with diet. But we know one day, his body will need an SSRI or hormones to help him cope.

Edited December 10, 2010 by tex-mex

[tex-mex]

Effexor is not addictive. It is standard medical practice to taper the drug for discontinuation as it effects multiple receptors in the brain, and to simply withdraw the medication abruptly can literally cause "shocks" to one's system. This is the case for many, many medications: not just psychopharmatropics.

 

 

There is a difference between addiction, dependence and tolerance:

 

"Physical dependence, tolerance, and addiction are discrete and different phenomena that are often

confused. Since their clinical implications and management differ markedly, it is important that uniform

definitions, based on current scientific and clinical understanding, be established in order to promote

better care of patients with pain and other conditions where the use of dependence-producing drugs is

appropriate, and to encourage appropriate regulatory policies and enforcement strategies.

 

I. Addiction

Addiction is a primary, chronic, neurobiologic disease, with genetic, psychosocial, and

environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. It is characterized

by behaviors that include one or more of the following: impaired control over drug use,

compulsive use, continued use despite harm, and craving.

 

II. Physical Dependence

Physical dependence is a state of adaptation that is manifested by a drug class specific

withdrawal syndrome that can be produced by abrupt cessation, rapid dose reduction,

decreasing blood level of the drug, and/or administration of an antagonist.

 

III. Tolerance

Tolerance is a state of adaptation in which exposure to a drug induces changes that result in

a diminution of one or more of the drug's effects over time."

 

Source: American Academy of Pain Medicine, American Pain Society and American Society of Addiction Medicine

 

 

 

a

:iagree: I made the mistake one time to forget to refill my Luvox (SSRI) while on the road. I went without for 3 days -- and boy, that was horrible going thru withdrawls. Severe headaches, irritability, nausea, irregular heartbeats, electric "volts" feeling, and dizzyness. Along with a comeback of anxiety and depressive mood. I realized WHY the docs say if you choose to stop taking the SSRI -- it is done in a controlled (long time) gradual tapering down of the dosage. NEVER just stop taking an SSRI for any reason without a doctor's supervision!!

[Omma]

I was told that I could take anti-depressants for 6 months or so, or I could get a treadmill or join a YMCA and do a lot of volunteer work and socializing and this would accomplish the same thing (as I was diagnosed with mild clinical depression). I had a bad reaction to the Celexa I tried (jaw clenching and tongue thrusting) but the YMCA and involvement in community work have helped me a lot.

 

But now I am watching my almost 11 ds having a lot of troubles (again) and I am wondering what to do for him, too (he's got anger issues combined with food allergies, and we just got back from Disney where he refused to eat hardly anything the last 2 days we were there). Last year I got the depression after trying to deal with a vomiting virus or something that he had for about 2 months (also, coincidently, at Disney). Should he see a counselor? How to pick one?

 

And I have sometimes been guilty of thinking, "If I could only get this dc to 18, I'll be so happy", but now I hear you saying the problems of a mom trying to help her dc go way beyond turning 18. Sigh.... How entwined we are to our dc, especially when we home school them!

 

I hope and pray that you can help him to get whatever help he needs to not turn to the addiction of alcohol, which can be a lifelong issue in his life.

 

Brenda

[asta]

Bruxism is a known, if not terribly common side effect of Celexa and its cousin Lexapro (IOW, not everyone gets it, but it is more common w/ Celexa than it is with other ADs). Luckily, there are many, many other ADs besides Celexa.

 

But I wanted to mention something else:

 

Something to remember about ALL psychiatric drugs and conditions is that often, when a person has been on medications for a while, they will often start to believe that they have "gotten worse due to the medications". (and, unfortunately, quite a few people will also believe that they are "healed" and simply quit their meds...)

 

While all medications have side effects, those are readily apparent within the first month or two of taking the drug. Once a person has been on a medication for a while, the most likely culprit is not the medication, but the person's illness. While it is widely recognized that mental illness waxes and wanes mood wise (eg: what people see on the outside), few people realize that, by and large, it is an illness that just steadily gets worse. Especially if treatment is not begun until a long time after onset and/or if it is intermittent or with the wrong medications.

 

Just my .02

 

 

a

[dancer67]

Effexor is not addictive. It is standard medical practice to taper the drug for discontinuation as it effects multiple receptors in the brain, and to simply withdraw the medication abruptly can literally cause "shocks" to one's system. This is the case for many, many medications: not just psychopharmatropics.

 

 

 

 

 

 

:iagree:

 

And because I am a long time user of Effexor XR, I can attest to this. This is not an addictive drug. There is a misconception of this especially when people suddenly stop taking it, or they have a hard time tapering off of it.

 

Benzo's, such as Klonipon, Valium, Xanax etc....are considered addictive.

 

I also wanted to mention that I agree with the poster who said that if your son is drinking, it is not a good idea to be doing this while on a SSRI/SSNRI.

 

And again, it can take up to 6 months for an AD to work. So it is not a quick fix, and therapy should be done alongside AD treatment.

 

:grouphug:

[jg_puppy]

 

 

 

 

 

[SailorMom]

I have been on Welbutrin for about 6 months now - it has literally changed my life. I thank God that I finally listened to my therapist and tried it. I only intended to use it short-term, but according to my therapist, it worked so well because I have a chemical imbalance - and when I go off of it, that will come back. Unless I develop side effects or problems from it - I now plan to stay on it indefinitely.

I also exercise about 3 times a week at the gym, and am very moderate in my alcohol and junk food consumption.

I really recommend seeing a therapist and a doc that know their stuff. Each anti-depresant/ anti-anxiety drug works so differently, and if he has bi-polar, or something else - the wrong meds can be disasterous.

[T'smom]

Effexor has been a miracle drug for me.

[Jean in Newcastle]

Do you have one that you like? I noticed that Dr. Oz's website recommends 2,000-4,000 for patients that suffer from depression.

 

 

 

 

I like Renew Life Oil Smart Omega 3-6-9 which actually is a blend of oils, not just fish oil. I just want to make sure I say that I would only recommend the Omegas by themselves if you have mild depression. Otherwise, studies have shown that Omegas in combination with prescribed medicine is a good way to go and does not detract from the medicine. Here is one site that tells of some of the studies: http://www.oilofpisces.com/depression.html

[Melissa in CA]

Thank you all for responding!

 

I think one reason my ds and I have been hesitant about going the drug route is that we honestly feel this was brought on by stress. He was in a year long nursing school and was totally and completely stressed out that entire year. He gained a lot of weight. His blood pressure was sky high. He had panic attacks. Now that he's out of school (passed with great grades) his BP has dropped to normal ranges and no more panic attacks, but his weight is out of control even though he doesn't eat and he's suffering depression and is always exhausted. Always. He has begun going to the gym about 3x a week, but so far nothing has really aleviated the fatigue or depression. He's not to the point of suicidal thoughts, just in a state of despair. Everything is gloom and doom. Says he has not and will not ever take 'drugs' but does enjoy drinking with his friends and that cigars and/or cigarettes make him feel less stressed, more relaxed but that he doesn't NEED them, just smokes on occasion. To which I say....uh, why would you even try ONE cigarette? :confused:

 

So, all that to say, I personally think he is in adrenal fatigue. High cortisol levels from the constant stress packed on the weight, and now his adrenals are shot. Even as a child he was never one to handle stress well.

So, we don't know if depression meds will help or hinder the overal healing of his body. Most medical doctors do not address adrenal fatigue as a viable issue. I know we could pay to go to a specialist....but we're broke. We have Kaiser and they refuse to send him to an endocrinologist because his blood work is in the normal range. Of course, they haven't tested his cortisol, or anything related to that. It's all very frustrating.

[asta]

Thank you all for responding!

 

I think one reason my ds and I have been hesitant about going the drug route is that we honestly feel this was brought on by stress. He was in a year long nursing school and was totally and completely stressed out that entire year. He gained a lot of weight. His blood pressure was sky high. He had panic attacks. Now that he's out of school (passed with great grades) his BP has dropped to normal ranges and no more panic attacks, but his weight is out of control even though he doesn't eat and he's suffering depression and is always exhausted. Always. He has begun going to the gym about 3x a week, but so far nothing has really aleviated the fatigue or depression. He's not to the point of suicidal thoughts, just in a state of despair. Everything is gloom and doom. Says he has not and will not ever take 'drugs' but does enjoy drinking with his friends and that cigars and/or cigarettes make him feel less stressed, more relaxed but that he doesn't NEED them, just smokes on occasion. To which I say....uh, why would you even try ONE cigarette? :confused:

 

So, all that to say, I personally think he is in adrenal fatigue. High cortisol levels from the constant stress packed on the weight, and now his adrenals are shot. Even as a child he was never one to handle stress well.

So, we don't know if depression meds will help or hinder the overal healing of his body. Most medical doctors do not address adrenal fatigue as a viable issue. I know we could pay to go to a specialist....but we're broke. We have Kaiser and they refuse to send him to an endocrinologist because his blood work is in the normal range. Of course, they haven't tested his cortisol, or anything related to that. It's all very frustrating.

 

They won't address adrenal fatigue because it doesn't exist. (here come the tomatoes) The adrenal gland works or it doesn't. It doesn't get fatigued like a muscle does. It goes and goes and goes and goes and then one day it doesn't (ask me how I know...).

 

Yes, stress messes with cortisol (and with the rest of the endocrine system). Long term stress can do permanent damage. Long term stress + a pre-existing disposition towards depression can equal bona fide (not situational) depression that needs to be treated medically. That treatment may involve a psychiatrist and psychotropic medications as well as a general practitioner and/or other specialists. If a person's blood levels are within normal ranges, it is reasonable for a GP not to send a person off for (very expensive) endocrinological testing. (Barring very odd physical symptoms such as lactation, extreme thirst or urination, sudden extreme weight loss or gain, etc.)

 

From everything I've read, weight from stress (eg: stress eating) responds best to a combination of psychotherapy (the "why am I eating to calm myself" puzzle piece) and psychotropics (the "what is missing in my brain that I am trying to replace with food" puzzle piece).

 

If it makes any difference, I'm not just spouting off: I have secondary adrenal failure due to pituitary disease. I know when my meds are off from many angles, but one of them is food. I get very anxious and start mindlessly searching for food (none of which tastes "right") when I need a med adjustment. I take meds for seizures and for the endocrine disorders.

 

 

asta

[Jean in Newcastle]

Thank you all for responding!

 

I think one reason my ds and I have been hesitant about going the drug route is that we honestly feel this was brought on by stress. He was in a year long nursing school and was totally and completely stressed out that entire year. He gained a lot of weight. His blood pressure was sky high. He had panic attacks. Now that he's out of school (passed with great grades) his BP has dropped to normal ranges and no more panic attacks, but his weight is out of control even though he doesn't eat and he's suffering depression and is always exhausted. Always. He has begun going to the gym about 3x a week, but so far nothing has really aleviated the fatigue or depression. He's not to the point of suicidal thoughts, just in a state of despair. Everything is gloom and doom. Says he has not and will not ever take 'drugs' but does enjoy drinking with his friends and that cigars and/or cigarettes make him feel less stressed, more relaxed but that he doesn't NEED them, just smokes on occasion. To which I say....uh, why would you even try ONE cigarette? :confused:

 

So, all that to say, I personally think he is in adrenal fatigue. High cortisol levels from the constant stress packed on the weight, and now his adrenals are shot. Even as a child he was never one to handle stress well.

So, we don't know if depression meds will help or hinder the overal healing of his body. Most medical doctors do not address adrenal fatigue as a viable issue. I know we could pay to go to a specialist....but we're broke. We have Kaiser and they refuse to send him to an endocrinologist because his blood work is in the normal range. Of course, they haven't tested his cortisol, or anything related to that. It's all very frustrating.

 

Buy this book. http://www.adrenalfatigue.org/ One of the things that it addresses is that many things (thyroid, candida to name just too that might fit some of his symptoms that you mentioned) can all contribute to adrenal problems. Does Kaiser cover naturopathic Drs? If it does, go to one. If not, I would suggest possibly finding other insurance that does or saving up money so that he can go to one. If you do go to one, call or go to their website to find out what approach they use. You want one that does actual lab testing in conjunction with herbal/supplements etc. The book does recommend a course of action but finding out if there are any current health issues that are putting a strain on his adrenals is imperative.

[Melissa in CA]

They won't address adrenal fatigue because it doesn't exist. (here come the tomatoes) The adrenal gland works or it doesn't. It doesn't get fatigued like a muscle does. It goes and goes and goes and goes and then one day it doesn't (ask me how I know...).

 

Yes, stress messes with cortisol (and with the rest of the endocrine system). Long term stress can do permanent damage. Long term stress + a pre-existing disposition towards depression can equal bona fide (not situational) depression that needs to be treated medically. That treatment may involve a psychiatrist and psychotropic medications as well as a general practitioner and/or other specialists. If a person's blood levels are within normal ranges, it is reasonable for a GP not to send a person off for (very expensive) endocrinological testing. (Barring very odd physical symptoms such as lactation, extreme thirst or urination, sudden extreme weight loss or gain, etc.)

 

From everything I've read, weight from stress (eg: stress eating) responds best to a combination of psychotherapy (the "why am I eating to calm myself" puzzle piece) and psychotropics (the "what is missing in my brain that I am trying to replace with food" puzzle piece).

 

If it makes any difference, I'm not just spouting off: I have secondary adrenal failure due to pituitary disease. I know when my meds are off from many angles, but one of them is food. I get very anxious and start mindlessly searching for food (none of which tastes "right") when I need a med adjustment. I take meds for seizures and for the endocrine disorders.

 

 

asta

 

Thanks Asta, I appreciate your perspective. :001_smile:

 

I am more of a whole foods/whole body healing type person. Totally not one who will jump on taking drugs for much of anything...so I tend to advise my son in that direction which is why we first went to a homeopath. So, hearing your view is balancing for me.

 

I do somewhat believe in adrenal fatigue though...but having not experineced it myself I cannot be sure of it's existance. It fits my sons description and experience perfectly though. BUT, I have made him an appt with the behavioral science dept at Kaiser. Unfortunately they cannot see him until Dec 22. :glare: Until then I have made up bags of vitamins for him to take morning and evening. They are vitamins I purchased several months ago that are geared towards adrenal fatigue. They actually did help his mood some, but taking oodles of vitamins each and every day is just NOT on the priority list of a 21 year old male. He forgets to take them when he's feeling good. I will also make sure he gets his oils. We have some Dr. Udos 3-6-9 oil that really isn't bad tasting. Again, getting him to take it regularly is the problem.

 

Now, I'll just hope and pray that he gets a decent Doctor on the 22nd. One never knows with Kaiser...:tongue_smilie:

 

Thank you everyone!! If you, or anyone else, has further advice or experiences they would like to share I am all ears/eyes. It's hard to see my son so unhappy and not know what to do. Ugh.

[tex-mex]

Thanks Asta, I appreciate your perspective. :001_smile:

 

I am more of a whole foods/whole body healing type person. Totally not one who will jump on taking drugs for much of anything...so I tend to advise my son in that direction which is why we first went to a homeopath. So, hearing your view is balancing for me.

 

I do somewhat believe in adrenal fatigue though...but having not experineced it myself I cannot be sure of it's existance. It fits my sons description and experience perfectly though. BUT, I have made him an appt with the behavioral science dept at Kaiser. Unfortunately they cannot see him until Dec 22. :glare: Until then I have made up bags of vitamins for him to take morning and evening. They are vitamins I purchased several months ago that are geared towards adrenal fatigue. They actually did help his mood some, but taking oodles of vitamins each and every day is just NOT on the priority list of a 21 year old male. He forgets to take them when he's feeling good. I will also make sure he gets his oils. We have some Dr. Udos 3-6-9 oil that really isn't bad tasting. Again, getting him to take it regularly is the problem.

 

Now, I'll just hope and pray that he gets a decent Doctor on the 22nd. One never knows with Kaiser...:tongue_smilie:

 

Thank you everyone!! If you, or anyone else, has further advice or experiences they would like to share I am all ears/eyes. It's hard to see my son so unhappy and not know what to do. Ugh.

Glad to hear you and son are talking about it.

 

My hubby deals with this. His cortisol levels are out of whack. All of his life he was misdiagnosed with low thyroid. When stress is triggering the person, the depression can be overwhelming. And the older you get, the cycles of depression (or fatigue) can get harder to overcome. Does he gain weight in the abdominal region? There could be so many factors like Addison's or such too -- please consider getting testing done.

[ktgrok]

Barleans makes a flavored oil, it's actually REALLy tasty.

 

 

Thanks Asta, I appreciate your perspective. :001_smile:

 

I am more of a whole foods/whole body healing type person. Totally not one who will jump on taking drugs for much of anything...so I tend to advise my son in that direction which is why we first went to a homeopath. So, hearing your view is balancing for me.

 

I do somewhat believe in adrenal fatigue though...but having not experineced it myself I cannot be sure of it's existance. It fits my sons description and experience perfectly though. BUT, I have made him an appt with the behavioral science dept at Kaiser. Unfortunately they cannot see him until Dec 22. :glare: Until then I have made up bags of vitamins for him to take morning and evening. They are vitamins I purchased several months ago that are geared towards adrenal fatigue. They actually did help his mood some, but taking oodles of vitamins each and every day is just NOT on the priority list of a 21 year old male. He forgets to take them when he's feeling good. I will also make sure he gets his oils. We have some Dr. Udos 3-6-9 oil that really isn't bad tasting. Again, getting him to take it regularly is the problem.

 

Now, I'll just hope and pray that he gets a decent Doctor on the 22nd. One never knows with Kaiser...:tongue_smilie:

 

Thank you everyone!! If you, or anyone else, has further advice or experiences they would like to share I am all ears/eyes. It's hard to see my son so unhappy and not know what to do. Ugh.

[Alphabetika]

Effexor has been a miracle drug for me.

 

 

:iagree:

[OregonNative]

DO NOT go to a regular MD. Your son needs to see someone with specific training: a Psych. or Mental Health Nurse Practioner (trust me on this). He needs counseling. The longer he goes w/o getting help, the worse it will get. Depression leads to anxiety and anxiety to depression. Your son may need meds for a short time or he may need them for a lifetime. Having a chemical imbalance is different than going thru a period of the blues. Some MD's will tell your that drug A is the same as drug B. Not so! Your son may have to try several different meds before he finds the right one. He may have to take more that one i.e one for depression and one for borderline manic depressive if that helps balance him. Does he sleep well? Your body is designed to function fully without 3 nights of good sleep. After that your brain does not function properly and depression can set in. These meds are there for a reason-to help. I'm more afraid of the crap in the flu shot than medication for mental health issues.

 

Your son is young and he has so much life ahead of him. If he gets worse, who knows how he will end up mentally. If he makes choices that eventually start to make him feel bad about himself, it's could turn itself into a self destructive cycle.

 

Depression isn't something to mess around with. It is very serious and often missed by many parents. Kudos to you for seeking help!

[gardening momma]

I am thinking perhaps my ds should go to his primary doctor and try a medication to see if it will at least help him through this time of his life. Alcoholism is rampant in my family as well as my dh's...I don't want him to go down that path. BUT, I am afraid of depression meds. He is afraid. He's heard horror stories, and is afraid he would be on a pill the rest of his life.

 

For anyone who is or has been depressed, can you please offer some of your wisdom here? I have never dealt with depression and I really don't know how to advise him.

I had postpartum depression after dd5 was born. My doctor put me on Zoloft and it helped immensely.

[Melissa in CA]

Glad to hear you and son are talking about it.

 

My hubby deals with this. His cortisol levels are out of whack. All of his life he was misdiagnosed with low thyroid. When stress is triggering the person, the depression can be overwhelming. And the older you get, the cycles of depression (or fatigue) can get harder to overcome. Does he gain weight in the abdominal region? There could be so many factors like Addison's or such too -- please consider getting testing done.

 

Yes, he does gain weight around the middle. He's gotten quite round.

 

We've had a lot of testing done by his regular MD...thyroid and testosterone levels are all fine. I don't think they tested his cortisol levels. The only reason I know of cortisol is because his homeopath mentioned it and explained how the stress caused the cortisol which caused the grizzly-bear type weight gain. Why he can't now lose the weight is frustrating him...he seems to only get larger despite everything he trys...which is NOT helping his depression. :glare:

[kalanamak]

Yes, he does gain weight around the middle. He's gotten quite round.

 

 

I would at least consider sleep apnea.

[MaMa2005]

You really need good information, not just a few opinions from this board. Visit the website of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill:

 

NAMI California - Informing, Educating & Supporting People With ...

Donna Pollard, a long-time NAMI Orange County volunteer, employee, and friend to families and children retired on October 7, 2010. ...

www.namicalifornia.org/ - Cached - Similar

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:iagree: NAMI is an outstanding organization with branches all over the USA. They have been a huge help to our family.

[Heather in the Kootenays]

My biggest regret in life is that I didn't go on meds earlier and stay on them longer. I'm close to making a decision to stay on them forever because life is just better - way better.

 

I take Prozac and for me, it's a miracle drug - no side effects that I can tell.

[Heather in the Kootenays]

I am a huge believer in exercise as a treatment for everything and I work out regularly. While it does improve my mood, the addition of meds really improves thing.

 

The difficult thing is that one of the effects of the illness is difficulty in getting started and continuing with anything, including exercise.

[Mergath]

I've been on Celexa for years now for depression and anxiety, though for awhile now, and with my doc's blessing, I've just been taking them during fall and winter (I'm lucky enough to have no adverse side effects from just stopping the meds in the spring). I do have a week or two of annoying side effects when I start the meds- upset stomach, insomnia, and bruxism, which is really maddening- but after that I'm fine, and the meds help immensely.

 

The advice I would give is to stick with them for awhile once you start. The side effects are a pain, but they do go away for most people, and medication can be extremely helpful.

[Melissa in CA]

Arg! My ds threw a monkey wrench into everything...

 

He found out that if he gets officially diagnosed with any form of depression that it will automatically disqualify him for a job in Law Enforcement...he wants to be a deputy or a probation/parole officer (After nursing school he has decided he does not like working in the medical field. Errrr) Apparently they, the Law Enforcement powers that be, think that if you can't cope with life in general, that you certainly can't do so in Law Enforcement. Understandable. So, he would be automatically disqualified.

 

Now what?????????????????

 

If his depression were severe or suicidal I would tell him forget LE. But it's mild, just enough to not make him him anymore KWIM? Down, grumpy, always tired, etc. But if he goes on meds, even for a short period of time until he gets through this phase of life, it will mess up his future chances. :confused: But if he doesn't go on meds he may continue to get more depressed as well as fatter and fatter which will also mess up his future chances. As it stands now, to even get in the academy, he would need to lost about 50 pounds.

 

Why can't life be easy. This child exhausts me.

[Perry]

 

He found out that if he gets officially diagnosed with any form of depression that it will automatically disqualify him for a job in Law Enforcement..

Who told him that? I'm having a hard time believing it automatically disqualifies him. I'd look into it further. A depressed but untreated police officer can't possibly be better than a treated one, KWIM?

[Melissa in CA]

Who told him that? I'm having a hard time believing it automatically disqualifies him. I'd look into it further. A depressed but untreated police officer can't possibly be better than a treated one, KWIM?

 

Well, a depressed police officer would most definitely need meds, and that's fine once you are already in the deptartment. But they will disqualify a recruit. There are too many healthy recruits to pick from, no need to choose a clinically depressed one.

[asta]

Well, a depressed police officer would most definitely need meds, and that's fine once you are already in the deptartment. But they will disqualify a recruit. There are too many healthy recruits to pick from, no need to choose a clinically depressed one.

 

Yes.

 

And he would have to go through a psychological exam regardless; meds or no meds. If he is depressed, he isn't going to pass that.

 

 

a

[kalanamak]

Arg! My ds threw a monkey wrench into everything...

 

(After nursing school he has decided he does not like working in the medical field. Errrr)

 

As it stands now, to even get in the academy, he would need to lost about 50 pounds.

 

Why can't life be easy. This child exhausts me.

 

Would you consider a gentle hint? Advise he work at a jail or prison as a nurse to save up money for a second bout of schooling (this lets him see if he really likes working with criminals), then back off and resolve to let he who throws the monkey wrench retrieve it and restart the gears.

[Mergath]

Arg! My ds threw a monkey wrench into everything...

 

He found out that if he gets officially diagnosed with any form of depression that it will automatically disqualify him for a job in Law Enforcement...he wants to be a deputy or a probation/parole officer (After nursing school he has decided he does not like working in the medical field. Errrr) Apparently they, the Law Enforcement powers that be, think that if you can't cope with life in general, that you certainly can't do so in Law Enforcement. Understandable. So, he would be automatically disqualified.

 

Now what?????????????????

 

If his depression were severe or suicidal I would tell him forget LE. But it's mild, just enough to not make him him anymore KWIM? Down, grumpy, always tired, etc. But if he goes on meds, even for a short period of time until he gets through this phase of life, it will mess up his future chances. :confused: But if he doesn't go on meds he may continue to get more depressed as well as fatter and fatter which will also mess up his future chances. As it stands now, to even get in the academy, he would need to lost about 50 pounds.

 

Why can't life be easy. This child exhausts me.

 

Careers in law enforcement are often very stressful. Having had a few friends in the field, I would be concerned that starting that line of work without receiving any treatment would likely exacerbate the depression until he couldn't function well enough to do his job.

 

Also, I know that when I'm dealing with a downswing in my depression, I tend to make rash decision without thinking things through. Some of those rash decision turned out okay, but many didn't. It's quite possible that if he does receive treatment for his depression, he'll decide he was a little too hasty in throwing away a career in nursing.

 

Either way, from what you've told us, I would really urge him to get treatment.

[tex-mex]

Well, a depressed police officer would most definitely need meds, and that's fine once you are already in the deptartment. But they will disqualify a recruit. There are too many healthy recruits to pick from, no need to choose a clinically depressed one.

What about having a (career) back-up plan? A plan B? Like using his nursing career in a highly active trauma/ER dept in a metropolitan city. He'll be busy and actively engaged (mentally) with some serious issues. I know of some career nurses who love the trauma/ER and love the level of adrenaline. But he will need to address his personal issues or he will not be at the top of his game in life or death matters.

 

There is no shame or harm in needing therapy or having depressive episodes. I personally would rather your ds gets help than push it under the "proverbial rug", kwim?

Edited December 13, 2010 by tex-mex

[Ottakee]

Proper medication is MUCH better than self medicating with alcohol and/or drugs, etc.

 

If this was just mild, using full spectrum lights, exercise, and taking 1000mg of EPA might help but if this is more than just mild depression, he really does need a doctor.

 

I would also suggest a FULL physical with blood work to rule out other things---anemia, blood sugar issues, thyroid problems, low Vit. D, etc. Sometimes there is another cause for the depression that needs to be treated first or along with the depression.

[Melissa in CA]

Thanks everyone! I hear what y'all are saying and I totally agree and appreciate your help. ;)

 

The last few days have been very good. As long as my ds takes his vitamins (special vitamins we bought previously for low thyroid/adrenal function) he feels really good; and he's been taking them. No signs of depression lately. He's been coming home every night after work (no partying), he's been going to the gym, playing board games and video games with his brother, basically hangin' out with the family. Good signs.

 

I think when it dawned on him Friday that meds will eliminate the possibility of a career in law enforcement, he realized that he must try and do what he can to naturally aleviate the problem. Whether it actually works remains to be seen. His Homeopath said that he sees many men my ds's age these days with mild depression...it seems to be a sign of the times...but that a lot of it is cultural and age related...not clinical. Meaning that a 21 yo has a lot of stress he puts on himself. He wants to find the right mate, the right career, be able to afford to leave home, etc., and if all of his friends are meeting those goals while he is still struggling too... frustration. impatience, depression sets in. And in my ds's case being overly stressed from school, plus having been in a severe motorcycle accident right in the middle of school, and having painful surgury, high dose pain meds, etc. that his body is over taxed and will need time to heal. Why he wants to get into law enforcement is beyond me as he has so many hurdles to jump through to get there. He is very goal oriented though so perhaps having that goal inspires him. IDK.

 

He does want to apply for a job as a nurse in the jails or prison here, but until they begin hiring again all job possibilities are on hold. :glare:

[dancer67]

:grouphug: to you.

[Little Nyssa]

Again, the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill has free support groups and classes for family members who are in exactly the same situation you are. Did I say free?

[Ottakee]

you mention he has had low thyroid. That is a HUGE thing for depression and depressive symptoms. It might not be clinical depression at all but rather a thyroid issue. I would suggest a physical with blood work---checking the sub thyroid levels as well and then maybe an endocrinologist that will look at his symptoms and blood work. It could be that thyroid meds would be a big answer to this issue.

[Melissa in CA]

Yeah, we know! But all avenues in regards to thyroid meds have been closed unless we want to pay the big bank. We've had his Thyroid levels tested three times now by his Kaiser Dr. and he's in 'normal' range....so he say's no specialist. :glare: His homeopath had him take his morning temp and it was/is extremely low every time, so he feels for certain that he has a thyroid issue, but he tried a few homepathic remedies and nothing changed. My ds has since decided he doesn't want to go back to the Homeopath...feels it's wasting money and he's tired of taking a boatload of different things each day in 'hopes' that they might work. He doesn't like feeling like he's paying to be experimented on. So, we are stumped. If I knew for certain that I could find an endocrinologist that would take him seriously, and who wouldn't cost a fortune, my dh and I would pay for it...somehow. But to pay $$$ and find out that it's not his thyroid at all would be beyond frustrating. Someone might need to put ME on meds!! :glare::glare:

 

What stumped me was what a Kaiser Dr. said. He said that if they put him on Thyroid meds when his thyroid was actually functioning properly, it would destroy his thyroid completely. So they refuse to even try it...even though he has MANY of the symptoms (minus the being cold and hair thinning). Soooooo, now he has us scared. Do we go to an outside dr who will possibly try the meds even though he is in the normal range, and possibly let him/her destroy his thyroid?? Can that even happen or was that Kasier Dr. a quack!? (many of them ARE!) :confused:

 

We honestly don't know what to do/think anymore.